but rather to become a man of value."- Albert Einstein
Tips for Staying Sane from the Middle School Trenches
You do not have to be an expert on everything related to books and technology. You should have a comfort level and a willingness to try new things but you also need to know when you have hit your max.
Before incorporating in a new program or technology, evaluate the needs of your library program. Does this new addition have the potential to enrich your program and how?
Be organized. Good organization now makes life much easier next year when its time for that big research project or to renew your databases.
If you are overwhelmed by a new technology or program, its likely that many of your students are too. It is okay to slow down or even to take a step back.
Have fun! We all went into this field for a reason! Find a few times during the year to let your passion for literature, research, or technology really shine.
Ask for help. If you aren't getting it from administration or other faculty members, be creative. Recruit students or parents to become part of your program. This will help you as well as give them a sense of meaning i relation to the library program and its success.
Support your faculty. In order to create allies within your school, you need to become one yourself.
Keep in mind what your end goal is. For me, it is to provide the best education possible for each student that I encounter. Make decisions that will ensure success within the restrictions you have to work with.
"Try not to become a man of success,
but rather to become a man of value."- Albert Einstein
Tips for Staying Sane from the Middle School Trenches